Thursday, December 13, 2007
Skimboarding in Tanauan, Leyte
The secret is out, Tanauan and Dulag towns in Leyte offer the best spots for skimboarding. Tanauan is a 30 minute jeepney ride from my guesthouse while Dulag is an hour away. The town of Tanauan is promoted as the skimboarding capital of the Philippines. The town hosts the Tanuan International Skimbording Competition which is held every Easter Sunday of each year. Skimboarding gear is available for rent, or one can order a locally made skimboard for P700.00
Monday, December 10, 2007
Mt. Panamao in Biliran
Mt. Panamao's High Adventure
By Bruce N. Ragas, Cebu City
http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/3712/tpanamao.html
BILIRAN Island is an excellent port and often the gateway to further destinations within the Visayas and even Mindanao.
The 555.42-square-kilometer island-province teems with beautiful white-sand beaches and its natural coves offer untold adventures to the daring traveler. It is bounded to the north by the Visayan Sea, to the east by Samar Sea, to the west by the Strait of Biliran and on the south by Carigara Bay.
Topography is slightly flat to gently rolling and rough terrain, an ideal bootcamp for both novice and expert mountaineers or backpackers alike.
It has narrow coastal areas of lowlands with lush and green mountainous interiors, except for the towns of Naval, the capital, and Caibiran.
There are many points of interest in this idyllic provincial setting, but the most prominent landmark which captured my unquenchable thirst of adventure for mountain climbing is the proud and intimidating height of Mt. Panamao in Caibiran.
Biliran's highest peak (1,030 meters), provides a panoramic view of the captivating island and its dazzling seas, and offers a cool climate and unlimited source of fresh and crystal-clear water, most especially during the wet season.
Tests conducted by Philippine National Oil Co. revealed immense geothermal power beneath.
Struck by the intriguing challenge of Panamao, 14 of us in the Trek Out Mountaineering Ministry decided to explore the mountain one hot week in April to experience and unravel the truth behind the myths and folklore of its giant snakes and deadly creatures.
Our team included Lou and Pamela Relampagos, Christian and Carolina Lorenzo, Rey Legayada, Arthur Kho, Ronnie Gabrillo, Carlos Bongon, Clint de los Santos, Lea Caballero, Raymond Bandalan and ArvinCapilitan.
Taking a boat from Cebu via Palompon, Leyte, we arrived at Kawayan town in time for a sumptuous seafood lunch prepared by a good friend, Fr. Jack Serate, the town's parish priest, who also prepared our transport and accommodation.
We proceeded to the town police station and were told by the authority that no mountaineer has ever reached the peak, except for local hunters and farmers who depend on the mountain's providence.
Undaunted, we took an hour uphill climb to Barangay Tubig-Ginoo, our jump-off point. The barangay captain provided us a guide who knew Panamao like the back of his hand.
Our first night was spent on a prairie-like flat grassland near the forest line overlooking the poblacion of Kawayan, the calm blue sea cloaking the chain of islands, and the panoramic scene of a descending sun in the distant horizon.
Anticipating a difficult and treacherous trail, we took an early rest. The night sky waltzed with stars and a full bright moon assured us of bright weather and nice days ahead.
The following morning: Early and heavy breakfast, checking gears and filling all water containers to the brim as if arming ourselves to the teeth in a gladiator combat against a fierce giant.
As we stepped on an inclining terrain amid thick vegetation, Panamao proved a force to reckon with. Passing through forested ridges, grassy cliffs and slippery trails, our heartbeat slowly adjusted to air conditions.
The El Nino phenomenon has taken its toll on Biliran, forcing us to go on water discipline (mountaineers' term for water conservation). All water sources in the mountain have almost dried up.
At rest, we feasted our eyes on the green and wild landscape. But there was a wide clearing as we approached one of the peaks--a recently denuded and burned area prepared to be farmed.
A sad sight. The slash-and-burn method of farming has almost reach the highest portion of the mountain. It was a cleverly selected area because it was not visible from below and could not attract attention from authorities.
After almost eight hours of uphill battle and bushwhacking negotiation along the trail, we reached the campsite near a dried creek. Even though the peak was just 15 more minutes of hiking, we decided to spare it for tomorrow.
As darkness and nocturnal sound blanketed the campsite, singing, lively discussion and laughter floated around. We recalled the day's well-done mission. Sharing of various emotions, feelings and experiences spiced our conversation. We then made a formal bid of good luck and goodbye to one of our members, a Franciscan brother, who looked forward to his overseas religious mission in Israel for three years.
The next day's chore was an alpine peak assault. It took us almost half an hour to reach the summit. Coastal, sea and island lay below us. We captured with camera shots the moment we would not want forgotten.
When we left the following day, it was purely downhill along treacherous, slippery trail--sliding and crawling, more than walking. Just as we all consumed our water, we made our way outside the forest cover.
Despite aching, sore muscles, we were elated that we successfully made it to the peak and back. Minor wounds, skin abrasions and bruises were treated like game trophies.
At the parish convent, we ate our fill of tinolang manok as if we never took any meal for almost a week. To reward our body with a cold bath, we lingered at the Masagongsong Swimming Pool, a natural pool.
Since it was our last night, it was hard to let go of the moment of total control and focus. Such primal moment was very hard to let go. The thought of going back to the complex and fast life of the city and office work seemed unbearable.
What else could be done except to let go and be back in the life of working for a living. Not just for a living but also to earn and save in order to climb another mountain again.
And soon.
Bruce N. Ragas is a member of Trek Out Mountaineering Ministry in Cebu City.
By Bruce N. Ragas, Cebu City
http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/3712/tpanamao.html
BILIRAN Island is an excellent port and often the gateway to further destinations within the Visayas and even Mindanao.
The 555.42-square-kilometer island-province teems with beautiful white-sand beaches and its natural coves offer untold adventures to the daring traveler. It is bounded to the north by the Visayan Sea, to the east by Samar Sea, to the west by the Strait of Biliran and on the south by Carigara Bay.
Topography is slightly flat to gently rolling and rough terrain, an ideal bootcamp for both novice and expert mountaineers or backpackers alike.
It has narrow coastal areas of lowlands with lush and green mountainous interiors, except for the towns of Naval, the capital, and Caibiran.
There are many points of interest in this idyllic provincial setting, but the most prominent landmark which captured my unquenchable thirst of adventure for mountain climbing is the proud and intimidating height of Mt. Panamao in Caibiran.
Biliran's highest peak (1,030 meters), provides a panoramic view of the captivating island and its dazzling seas, and offers a cool climate and unlimited source of fresh and crystal-clear water, most especially during the wet season.
Tests conducted by Philippine National Oil Co. revealed immense geothermal power beneath.
Struck by the intriguing challenge of Panamao, 14 of us in the Trek Out Mountaineering Ministry decided to explore the mountain one hot week in April to experience and unravel the truth behind the myths and folklore of its giant snakes and deadly creatures.
Our team included Lou and Pamela Relampagos, Christian and Carolina Lorenzo, Rey Legayada, Arthur Kho, Ronnie Gabrillo, Carlos Bongon, Clint de los Santos, Lea Caballero, Raymond Bandalan and ArvinCapilitan.
Taking a boat from Cebu via Palompon, Leyte, we arrived at Kawayan town in time for a sumptuous seafood lunch prepared by a good friend, Fr. Jack Serate, the town's parish priest, who also prepared our transport and accommodation.
We proceeded to the town police station and were told by the authority that no mountaineer has ever reached the peak, except for local hunters and farmers who depend on the mountain's providence.
Undaunted, we took an hour uphill climb to Barangay Tubig-Ginoo, our jump-off point. The barangay captain provided us a guide who knew Panamao like the back of his hand.
Our first night was spent on a prairie-like flat grassland near the forest line overlooking the poblacion of Kawayan, the calm blue sea cloaking the chain of islands, and the panoramic scene of a descending sun in the distant horizon.
Anticipating a difficult and treacherous trail, we took an early rest. The night sky waltzed with stars and a full bright moon assured us of bright weather and nice days ahead.
The following morning: Early and heavy breakfast, checking gears and filling all water containers to the brim as if arming ourselves to the teeth in a gladiator combat against a fierce giant.
As we stepped on an inclining terrain amid thick vegetation, Panamao proved a force to reckon with. Passing through forested ridges, grassy cliffs and slippery trails, our heartbeat slowly adjusted to air conditions.
The El Nino phenomenon has taken its toll on Biliran, forcing us to go on water discipline (mountaineers' term for water conservation). All water sources in the mountain have almost dried up.
At rest, we feasted our eyes on the green and wild landscape. But there was a wide clearing as we approached one of the peaks--a recently denuded and burned area prepared to be farmed.
A sad sight. The slash-and-burn method of farming has almost reach the highest portion of the mountain. It was a cleverly selected area because it was not visible from below and could not attract attention from authorities.
After almost eight hours of uphill battle and bushwhacking negotiation along the trail, we reached the campsite near a dried creek. Even though the peak was just 15 more minutes of hiking, we decided to spare it for tomorrow.
As darkness and nocturnal sound blanketed the campsite, singing, lively discussion and laughter floated around. We recalled the day's well-done mission. Sharing of various emotions, feelings and experiences spiced our conversation. We then made a formal bid of good luck and goodbye to one of our members, a Franciscan brother, who looked forward to his overseas religious mission in Israel for three years.
The next day's chore was an alpine peak assault. It took us almost half an hour to reach the summit. Coastal, sea and island lay below us. We captured with camera shots the moment we would not want forgotten.
When we left the following day, it was purely downhill along treacherous, slippery trail--sliding and crawling, more than walking. Just as we all consumed our water, we made our way outside the forest cover.
Despite aching, sore muscles, we were elated that we successfully made it to the peak and back. Minor wounds, skin abrasions and bruises were treated like game trophies.
At the parish convent, we ate our fill of tinolang manok as if we never took any meal for almost a week. To reward our body with a cold bath, we lingered at the Masagongsong Swimming Pool, a natural pool.
Since it was our last night, it was hard to let go of the moment of total control and focus. Such primal moment was very hard to let go. The thought of going back to the complex and fast life of the city and office work seemed unbearable.
What else could be done except to let go and be back in the life of working for a living. Not just for a living but also to earn and save in order to climb another mountain again.
And soon.
Bruce N. Ragas is a member of Trek Out Mountaineering Ministry in Cebu City.
Blazing the Leyte Mountain Trail
Trips - Leyte Mountain Trail, Province of Leyte
Blazing the Leyte Mountain Trail
by Bot Villalobos edited by Robert Gardner
from the http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/3712/tleytemt.html
Trekking in the Philippines is a relatively new sport. To encourage its development, the Ministry of Tourism and the National Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines (NMFP) have been surveying backcountry areas through the NMFP's member organizations.
Among the sites identified as suitable trekking areas are Mt. Apo near Davao, Mt. Kitanglad in Bukidnon, Mt. Madja-as in Antique, Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Occidental, Mt. Guiting-Guiting in Romblon, Mt. Iriga in Camarines Sur, Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon, Mt. Pulog in Benguet, Mt. Banahaw in Quezon, and Mt. Makiling in Laguna.
A new addition to this list is the LEYTE MOUNTAIN TRAIL which winds through thickly forested ranges and valleys, criss-crossing one of the province's primary rivers, the Marabong.
The establishment of the Leyte Mountain Trail started with speculative surveys made by an Australian tour agency with the help of Philippine Airlines (PAL) Tours and Promotions Office.
With the eventual involvement of the Ministry of Natural Resources, University of the Philippines (Tacloban), Leyte Sab-a Basin Development Authority, Province of Leyte, and the Association for Research, Exploration and Air (AREA) the 40-km trail was blazed in May 1982.
With about 150 participants, resthuts were built along the trail from Lake Mahagnao northward to Lake Imelda. During 16 days of hard work by both the locals and the Australians, 5 of the 7 planned resthuts were completed according to Steve Koch, consultant to the Ministry of Natural Resources.
On August 16, 1982, the NMFP retraced the trail blazed just three months earlier. Representatives from the different mountaineering organizations joined the trek which was sponsored by member agencies of the Leyte Mountain Trail Executive Committee.
Individuals who completed the trek include Jerry Celucia, Danny Montaniel, Timmy Toledo, Neri Alfonso, Roni Alfonso, John Fortes, Ben Sevilla and Orly Victuelles (PAL Mountaineering Club); Yol Fernandez, Rey Paviers and John Anglo (San Augustine Mountaineering Club--Bacolod); Edwin Gatia (Philippine Mountaineering Society--Bacolod); J.G. Laurente (Mountain Muscle--Cebu); Nano Into (MACADAC - GEMS - Davao); Peng Peralta (Mayon Mountaineers--Legaspi); Rommel Guttierez (UP Mountaineers--Manila); Nestor Temana (Antique Mountaineering Society); Myra Repulda (Ministry of Tourism--Tacloban); a lady research officer and warden from the Bureau of Forest Development (BFD); and the writer who represented the Philippine Alpinist Association. Mr. Ted Fernandez of the BFD acted as guide.
The long hike through the Leyte Mountains is a rewarding experience. Ferns, lilies, aerial plants, tropical shrubs, and birdlife abound throughout the primary forest encompassing the entire trail. The river system is a prominent and interesting feature of the trek. From Mahagnao, the trail goes down to Guinaniban Falls, which flows into the river, and from here frequent river crossings are necessary up to the second resthut.
The Lake Mahagnao area has been popular with foreign tourists because of the abundant birdlife. A resthut that can accomodate 35 to 40 campers sits on the shore of the lake just below the barrio of Mahagnao.
At the other end of the trail is Lake Imelda National Park which covers an area of 2,047 hectares. The lake itself measures about 144 hectares and is 565 meters above sea level with its deepest point reaching 180-m. A resthut on its eastern shore can accomodate about 40 campers. The park is accessible from the town of Ormoc by taking a jeepney bound for Ga-as, a barrio 4-km beyond the lake, and get off right on the eastern shore. The warden's office is located directly across the lake.
The Leyte Mountain Trail is a challenging hike through rugged but beautiful terrain. The journey can be accomplished in eight days but if you don't have the time or inclination, a visit to one of the lakes at either end would be a worthwhile venture.
Blazing the Leyte Mountain Trail
by Bot Villalobos edited by Robert Gardner
from the http://www.geocities.com/Yosemite/3712/tleytemt.html
Trekking in the Philippines is a relatively new sport. To encourage its development, the Ministry of Tourism and the National Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines (NMFP) have been surveying backcountry areas through the NMFP's member organizations.
Among the sites identified as suitable trekking areas are Mt. Apo near Davao, Mt. Kitanglad in Bukidnon, Mt. Madja-as in Antique, Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Occidental, Mt. Guiting-Guiting in Romblon, Mt. Iriga in Camarines Sur, Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon, Mt. Pulog in Benguet, Mt. Banahaw in Quezon, and Mt. Makiling in Laguna.
A new addition to this list is the LEYTE MOUNTAIN TRAIL which winds through thickly forested ranges and valleys, criss-crossing one of the province's primary rivers, the Marabong.
The establishment of the Leyte Mountain Trail started with speculative surveys made by an Australian tour agency with the help of Philippine Airlines (PAL) Tours and Promotions Office.
With the eventual involvement of the Ministry of Natural Resources, University of the Philippines (Tacloban), Leyte Sab-a Basin Development Authority, Province of Leyte, and the Association for Research, Exploration and Air (AREA) the 40-km trail was blazed in May 1982.
With about 150 participants, resthuts were built along the trail from Lake Mahagnao northward to Lake Imelda. During 16 days of hard work by both the locals and the Australians, 5 of the 7 planned resthuts were completed according to Steve Koch, consultant to the Ministry of Natural Resources.
On August 16, 1982, the NMFP retraced the trail blazed just three months earlier. Representatives from the different mountaineering organizations joined the trek which was sponsored by member agencies of the Leyte Mountain Trail Executive Committee.
Individuals who completed the trek include Jerry Celucia, Danny Montaniel, Timmy Toledo, Neri Alfonso, Roni Alfonso, John Fortes, Ben Sevilla and Orly Victuelles (PAL Mountaineering Club); Yol Fernandez, Rey Paviers and John Anglo (San Augustine Mountaineering Club--Bacolod); Edwin Gatia (Philippine Mountaineering Society--Bacolod); J.G. Laurente (Mountain Muscle--Cebu); Nano Into (MACADAC - GEMS - Davao); Peng Peralta (Mayon Mountaineers--Legaspi); Rommel Guttierez (UP Mountaineers--Manila); Nestor Temana (Antique Mountaineering Society); Myra Repulda (Ministry of Tourism--Tacloban); a lady research officer and warden from the Bureau of Forest Development (BFD); and the writer who represented the Philippine Alpinist Association. Mr. Ted Fernandez of the BFD acted as guide.
The long hike through the Leyte Mountains is a rewarding experience. Ferns, lilies, aerial plants, tropical shrubs, and birdlife abound throughout the primary forest encompassing the entire trail. The river system is a prominent and interesting feature of the trek. From Mahagnao, the trail goes down to Guinaniban Falls, which flows into the river, and from here frequent river crossings are necessary up to the second resthut.
The Lake Mahagnao area has been popular with foreign tourists because of the abundant birdlife. A resthut that can accomodate 35 to 40 campers sits on the shore of the lake just below the barrio of Mahagnao.
At the other end of the trail is Lake Imelda National Park which covers an area of 2,047 hectares. The lake itself measures about 144 hectares and is 565 meters above sea level with its deepest point reaching 180-m. A resthut on its eastern shore can accomodate about 40 campers. The park is accessible from the town of Ormoc by taking a jeepney bound for Ga-as, a barrio 4-km beyond the lake, and get off right on the eastern shore. The warden's office is located directly across the lake.
The Leyte Mountain Trail is a challenging hike through rugged but beautiful terrain. The journey can be accomplished in eight days but if you don't have the time or inclination, a visit to one of the lakes at either end would be a worthwhile venture.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Leyte mountain harbors endangered species in world list
Leyte mountain harbors endangered species in world list
Friday, 21 September 2007
By RUDY A. FERNANDEZThe Philippine Star
Mt Pangasugan
Densely vegetated Mt. Pangasugan, regarded as the “last forest frontier in Eastern Visayas,” still harbors animal species now in the world’s list of endangered fauna.Many species identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources that compose the “Red List of Threatened Animals” can still be found in the Mt. Pangasugan forest area of the Visayas State University in Baybay City, Leyte, VSU reported.
Among the mammal species are the Philippine tarsier, Philippine flying fox and Fischer’s pygmy fruit bat.Mt. Pangasugan, which is a prominent part of the mountain range that transgresses Leyte Island, also is still home to the Philippine eagle-owl, Philippine hawk-eagle, Rufous Lord kingfisher, Philippine leafbird and miniature tit-babbler.“A total of 216 bird species have been recorded, a number of them endangered or vulnerable to extinction,” reported VSU’s Zenaida Gerona.
VSU and German scientists also claim that the mountain has numerous forest fauna that have yet to be identified, reclassified, or recorded. Their most recent breakthroughs were the rediscovery on Mt. Pangasugan of the Philippine tarsier and flying lemur and the identification of the Fischer’s pygmy fruit bat.“New records of the microbat (Hypposideros obscurus) with a length of 5.5 centimeters and body weight of 10 grams and skink (Tropidophorus grayh) were added to the long list of new discoveries,” Gerona said. The new species of the fish Goblidae, namely: Stiphodon olivaceous and Stiphodon surrufus sp. M., were described from the rivers running down Mt. Pangasugan, she added.
The staff of VSU’s Natural History Museum has also collected from the mountain some 43,000 arthropod specimens belonging to 377 families and 500 genera. A total of 434 of these have been classified according to species level. Further, more than 60 specimens of macrofungi have been recorded, with 47 species belonging to 42 genera.New specimens of orchid, Dendrobium milaniae Fessel and Lueckel, and tiger bettle, Thopeutica milaniae, have been described and named in honor of incumbent VSU president Dr. Paciencia Po-Milan, a multi-awarded, internationally recognized ecologist.Part of the 594-hectare range that encompasses Mt. Pangasugan serves as VSU’s forest and used in support of its instruction, research and extension program in natural resources management.
Friday, 21 September 2007
By RUDY A. FERNANDEZThe Philippine Star
Mt Pangasugan
Densely vegetated Mt. Pangasugan, regarded as the “last forest frontier in Eastern Visayas,” still harbors animal species now in the world’s list of endangered fauna.Many species identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources that compose the “Red List of Threatened Animals” can still be found in the Mt. Pangasugan forest area of the Visayas State University in Baybay City, Leyte, VSU reported.
Among the mammal species are the Philippine tarsier, Philippine flying fox and Fischer’s pygmy fruit bat.Mt. Pangasugan, which is a prominent part of the mountain range that transgresses Leyte Island, also is still home to the Philippine eagle-owl, Philippine hawk-eagle, Rufous Lord kingfisher, Philippine leafbird and miniature tit-babbler.“A total of 216 bird species have been recorded, a number of them endangered or vulnerable to extinction,” reported VSU’s Zenaida Gerona.
VSU and German scientists also claim that the mountain has numerous forest fauna that have yet to be identified, reclassified, or recorded. Their most recent breakthroughs were the rediscovery on Mt. Pangasugan of the Philippine tarsier and flying lemur and the identification of the Fischer’s pygmy fruit bat.“New records of the microbat (Hypposideros obscurus) with a length of 5.5 centimeters and body weight of 10 grams and skink (Tropidophorus grayh) were added to the long list of new discoveries,” Gerona said. The new species of the fish Goblidae, namely: Stiphodon olivaceous and Stiphodon surrufus sp. M., were described from the rivers running down Mt. Pangasugan, she added.
The staff of VSU’s Natural History Museum has also collected from the mountain some 43,000 arthropod specimens belonging to 377 families and 500 genera. A total of 434 of these have been classified according to species level. Further, more than 60 specimens of macrofungi have been recorded, with 47 species belonging to 42 genera.New specimens of orchid, Dendrobium milaniae Fessel and Lueckel, and tiger bettle, Thopeutica milaniae, have been described and named in honor of incumbent VSU president Dr. Paciencia Po-Milan, a multi-awarded, internationally recognized ecologist.Part of the 594-hectare range that encompasses Mt. Pangasugan serves as VSU’s forest and used in support of its instruction, research and extension program in natural resources management.
Things to do In Tacloban and Nearby
Mentioning Tacloban City, in Leyte to every Filipino always brings back the memory of WW II’s most popular phrase “I shall return” of Douglas Macarthur. The Red beach of Tacloban City is a famed landmark where General MacArthur landed on October 20, 1944 as the fulfillment of his promise to liberate the Filipinos from the hands of the Japanese invaders. Today, this historic event can be witnessed through the larger-than-actual-life size statues of Gen. MacArthur, Carlos P. Romulo, Pres. Sergio Osmena and some other men walking ashore fronting the Red Beach.
Much of the city’s touring activities are based on this memorable event and most of the tourists whether Filipinos, Americans or Japanese are close relatives of the heroes who come to Tacloban to reminisce.
But there is more to Tacloban City than WW II memorablias. Tacloban City is nestled in a rugged bay that made it a natural shelter for seafarers during typhoons.
Being a small city, its easy to take in the entire city in an afternoon’s walk. Along Magsaysay Boulevard, are open air café’s and small barbecus stands that serve cold beer. A perfect way to enjoy cool afternoons while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
Here are a few tihngs you can check out inTacloban City and nearby.
Dio Mainland Resort - Located in Brgy. San Jose, 7 km. from Tacloban City. Native cottages, native beach kiosks, function facilities, swimming pool, spacious parking area, restaurant, ground sports facilities. Commonly called Baluarte San Jose where remnants of World War II Japanese pill boxes and a canon still exist and preserved for viewing; panoramic view of Leyte Gulf and Samar Island.
Tacloban City Hall -Located atop Kanhuraw Hill. Seat of the city government of Tacloban since June 12, 1952; overview of Tacloban City, Cancabato Bay, San Pedro Bay, San Juanico Strait, Cataisan Point and Samar Island; surrounding Philippine-Japanese peace memorial markers. Landscaped garden with concrete tables and chairs; canteen; function hall; tourism office.
People’s Center and Library - Located in Real Street, Tacloban City. Historical documents recording the rich cultural heritage of the people of Samar and Leyte; a collection of dioramas of the 82 ethnic tribes of the Philippines; a collection of books on the humanities. Social hall and reading room.
San Juanico Bridge - Located in Brgy. Cabalawan, Tacloban City, between the islands of Leyte and Samar – the south entrance at Tacloban and the north entrance at Babatngon. Said to be the narrowest yet the most navigable strait in the world. Beautiful islets and infinite whirlpools; rushing water scene; good for fishing and water skiing. San Juanico Bridge is the longest and most beautifully designed bridge in the Philippines; picturesque San Juanico Strait with a thousand whirlpools; lovely islets; picturesque views.
Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum - The infamous mansion built by Imelda Marcos during the heyday of the Marcoses. It is located in Real Street, Tacloban City. Contains the paintings of the 14 stations of the Cross done by Filipino artists, wooden bas-relief of the legend of the First Filipino man-woman (Si Malakas at si Maganda); tastefully decorated guestrooms of varied Filipino motifs; image of the Holy Child; a collection of original paintings by Fernando Amorsolo; spacious ballroom; and priceless collector’s items.
Madonna of Japan - Located at the foot of Kanhuraw Hill, Tacloban City. Landscaped garden with statue of the Goddess of Peace called Maria Kannon donated by the Japanese people – a symbol of peace and friendship between the Philippines and Japan; scenic view of Samar Island and Kankabato Bay. Benches, lamp posts, altar for offerings.
Sto. Niño Church- Located at the corner of Real and Zamora Streets, Tacloban City. Miraculous Image of Santo Niño, patron saint of Leyte. Also known as the Church of Liberation. Stations of the CrossLocated atop the hill above Serin District overlooking Tacloban City. The 14 Stations of the Cross in more than life-size concrete forms leading to the 18-foot statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Place for prayer and meditation on the Passion of Christ.
Buddhist Temple - Located in Anibong District, Tacloban City at the foot of a hill. A beautiful 2-storey pagoda where monks and Buddhists make their worship, prayers, and offerings. Overlooking Tacloban City and Samar Island. A wide balcony ideal for religious functions/receptions.
La Purisima Shrine - Located in Brgy. Guindapunan, Palo, Leyte, 12 km. from Tacloban City. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception replica which has been the object of devotional pilgrimage since its erection in 1879. Steps leading to Hill 522; shrine.
Palo’s Holy Week Traditions - (Good Friday; Palo, Leyte)Palo, Leyte was declared in the Diocesan Synod of 1910 as a center of faith and religiousity in Eastern Visayas. Oldest of Palo’s Holy Week traditions is the Penitentes, a penitential fraternity of cassocked, barefoot, and hooded members organized by Fray Pantaleon de le Fuente, OFM in 1984 supposedly to replace the flagellants, fanatics who whipped themselves or have themselves whipped to atone for wrong doings, whose cult of fanatics was gaining momentum among the faithful.
Turugpo - (Black Saturday; Brgy. Camansi, Carigara, Leyte)Traditional jousts of native carabaos (pasungay) and horses (paaway). Cockfight (karambola) is another attraction.
Subiran Regatta - (June 28; Tacloban City) An exciting race of one-man native sailboats with outriggers locally called “subiran” along scenic and historic Leyte Gulf. The race is done without using a paddle but only skills and techniques to maneuver the sail.
Pintados Festival - (June 29; Tacloban City)A dance festival of painted dancers celebrating important events like exploits of war, nature worship in narrative dance movements depicting their own folk practices and beliefs. The custom of tattooing earned for the Leyteños the name of Pintados. From ancient history, Roman conquests mentioned tattooed people in Briton, Saitas, Oriental Tartar, and other parts of the world.
Balyuan (June 29; Balyuan Tower, Tacloban City)The Feast of Sto. Niño, the revered patron saint of Tacloban, is celebrated with a pageant re-enacting the historical exchange of images between Barrio Buscada of Basey, Samar and Sitio Kankabatok, now Tacloban City. The Basey Flotilla bearing the church and government leaders goes on a fluvial procession along San Pedro Bay. A budyong (shell) call announces the sight of the flotilla off Kankabatok Bay.
Sto. Niño de Leyte Fiesta - (June 30; Tacloban City)Grand fiesta of Tacloban celebrated with the traditional turn-over ceremonies of the “Teniente” made by the immediate past Hermano Mayor to the incoming Hermano Mayor. This is accompanied by the ritual of giving the medallion containing the names of all Hermanos Pasados and the Standartes.
Much of the city’s touring activities are based on this memorable event and most of the tourists whether Filipinos, Americans or Japanese are close relatives of the heroes who come to Tacloban to reminisce.
But there is more to Tacloban City than WW II memorablias. Tacloban City is nestled in a rugged bay that made it a natural shelter for seafarers during typhoons.
Being a small city, its easy to take in the entire city in an afternoon’s walk. Along Magsaysay Boulevard, are open air café’s and small barbecus stands that serve cold beer. A perfect way to enjoy cool afternoons while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
Here are a few tihngs you can check out inTacloban City and nearby.
Dio Mainland Resort - Located in Brgy. San Jose, 7 km. from Tacloban City. Native cottages, native beach kiosks, function facilities, swimming pool, spacious parking area, restaurant, ground sports facilities. Commonly called Baluarte San Jose where remnants of World War II Japanese pill boxes and a canon still exist and preserved for viewing; panoramic view of Leyte Gulf and Samar Island.
Tacloban City Hall -Located atop Kanhuraw Hill. Seat of the city government of Tacloban since June 12, 1952; overview of Tacloban City, Cancabato Bay, San Pedro Bay, San Juanico Strait, Cataisan Point and Samar Island; surrounding Philippine-Japanese peace memorial markers. Landscaped garden with concrete tables and chairs; canteen; function hall; tourism office.
People’s Center and Library - Located in Real Street, Tacloban City. Historical documents recording the rich cultural heritage of the people of Samar and Leyte; a collection of dioramas of the 82 ethnic tribes of the Philippines; a collection of books on the humanities. Social hall and reading room.
San Juanico Bridge - Located in Brgy. Cabalawan, Tacloban City, between the islands of Leyte and Samar – the south entrance at Tacloban and the north entrance at Babatngon. Said to be the narrowest yet the most navigable strait in the world. Beautiful islets and infinite whirlpools; rushing water scene; good for fishing and water skiing. San Juanico Bridge is the longest and most beautifully designed bridge in the Philippines; picturesque San Juanico Strait with a thousand whirlpools; lovely islets; picturesque views.
Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum - The infamous mansion built by Imelda Marcos during the heyday of the Marcoses. It is located in Real Street, Tacloban City. Contains the paintings of the 14 stations of the Cross done by Filipino artists, wooden bas-relief of the legend of the First Filipino man-woman (Si Malakas at si Maganda); tastefully decorated guestrooms of varied Filipino motifs; image of the Holy Child; a collection of original paintings by Fernando Amorsolo; spacious ballroom; and priceless collector’s items.
Madonna of Japan - Located at the foot of Kanhuraw Hill, Tacloban City. Landscaped garden with statue of the Goddess of Peace called Maria Kannon donated by the Japanese people – a symbol of peace and friendship between the Philippines and Japan; scenic view of Samar Island and Kankabato Bay. Benches, lamp posts, altar for offerings.
Sto. Niño Church- Located at the corner of Real and Zamora Streets, Tacloban City. Miraculous Image of Santo Niño, patron saint of Leyte. Also known as the Church of Liberation. Stations of the CrossLocated atop the hill above Serin District overlooking Tacloban City. The 14 Stations of the Cross in more than life-size concrete forms leading to the 18-foot statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Place for prayer and meditation on the Passion of Christ.
Buddhist Temple - Located in Anibong District, Tacloban City at the foot of a hill. A beautiful 2-storey pagoda where monks and Buddhists make their worship, prayers, and offerings. Overlooking Tacloban City and Samar Island. A wide balcony ideal for religious functions/receptions.
La Purisima Shrine - Located in Brgy. Guindapunan, Palo, Leyte, 12 km. from Tacloban City. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception replica which has been the object of devotional pilgrimage since its erection in 1879. Steps leading to Hill 522; shrine.
Palo’s Holy Week Traditions - (Good Friday; Palo, Leyte)Palo, Leyte was declared in the Diocesan Synod of 1910 as a center of faith and religiousity in Eastern Visayas. Oldest of Palo’s Holy Week traditions is the Penitentes, a penitential fraternity of cassocked, barefoot, and hooded members organized by Fray Pantaleon de le Fuente, OFM in 1984 supposedly to replace the flagellants, fanatics who whipped themselves or have themselves whipped to atone for wrong doings, whose cult of fanatics was gaining momentum among the faithful.
Turugpo - (Black Saturday; Brgy. Camansi, Carigara, Leyte)Traditional jousts of native carabaos (pasungay) and horses (paaway). Cockfight (karambola) is another attraction.
Subiran Regatta - (June 28; Tacloban City) An exciting race of one-man native sailboats with outriggers locally called “subiran” along scenic and historic Leyte Gulf. The race is done without using a paddle but only skills and techniques to maneuver the sail.
Pintados Festival - (June 29; Tacloban City)A dance festival of painted dancers celebrating important events like exploits of war, nature worship in narrative dance movements depicting their own folk practices and beliefs. The custom of tattooing earned for the Leyteños the name of Pintados. From ancient history, Roman conquests mentioned tattooed people in Briton, Saitas, Oriental Tartar, and other parts of the world.
Balyuan (June 29; Balyuan Tower, Tacloban City)The Feast of Sto. Niño, the revered patron saint of Tacloban, is celebrated with a pageant re-enacting the historical exchange of images between Barrio Buscada of Basey, Samar and Sitio Kankabatok, now Tacloban City. The Basey Flotilla bearing the church and government leaders goes on a fluvial procession along San Pedro Bay. A budyong (shell) call announces the sight of the flotilla off Kankabatok Bay.
Sto. Niño de Leyte Fiesta - (June 30; Tacloban City)Grand fiesta of Tacloban celebrated with the traditional turn-over ceremonies of the “Teniente” made by the immediate past Hermano Mayor to the incoming Hermano Mayor. This is accompanied by the ritual of giving the medallion containing the names of all Hermanos Pasados and the Standartes.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Top pick nature trips to do in Leyte
San Juanico StraitLocated in Brgy. Cabalawan, Tacloban City, between the islands of Leyte and Samar – the south entrance at Tacloban and the north entrance at Babatngon. Said to be the narrowest yet the most navigable strait in the world. Beautiful islets and infinite whirlpools; rushing water scene; good for fishing and water skiing. See the country's most beautiful bridge the scenic San Juanico Bridge.
Red BeachLocated in Brgys. Baras and Candahug, Palo Leyte, 10 km. from Tacloban City. Landing site of the Allied Forces headed by Gen. Douglas MacArthur during the liberation of the Philippines in 1944; panoramic view of Leyte Gulf and Samar Island; ideal place for promenading; picnicking, swimming, and windsurfing. Beach resort with restaurant, other guest services, and sports facilities, native beach, kiosks with wooden picnic tables, and benches for rent.
Mt. KankahanayLocated in Jaro, Leyte, 37 km. from Tacloban City. Scenic virgin forests, very cool climate, almost 4,000 ft. above sea level; hunter’s paradise.
Mahagnao National ParkLocated in Burauen, Leyte, 66 km. from Tacloban City is very much ideal for hiking. Established national park since 1937; awe-inspiring craters, hot springs, multi-colored muds and rocks, lakes, virgin forests with giant ferns and orchids, lagoon, and temperate climate.
Leyte Mountain TrailAn outstanding trekking area which starts from the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park, Burauen to Lake Danao Natural Park in Ormoc, a distance of approximately 40 km. Rainforest tour, beautiful lakes – Mahagnao, Malagsum, Casudsu-ran and Danao; the spectacular Guinaniban Falls, breathtaking view of mountains, forests, plains and the island of Samar and Leyte from the crest of the central Amandiwing Mountain Range; the profusion of tropical flora and fauna including colourful insects, butterflies, dragonflies, bugs, giant millipedes, deers, wild boars, monkeys, birds, orchids, and giant ferns.
Tongonan Hotsprings National ParkLocated in Ormoc City, 123 km. from Tacloban City (also accessible from Kananga). A valley of geothermal power source that can supply electricity to the whole region when fully developed; cool and relaxing climate; first geothermal power plant to operate in the Philippines.
Himokilan IslandHindang, Leyte, 140 km. from Tacloban City plus 30-minute pumpboat ride. Largest island of the Cuatro Islas where the big delicious coconut-cracking crabs called “tatus” are found.
Lake DanaoLocated in Ormoc City, 125 km. from Tacloban City. A violin-shaped lake 2,100 feet above sea level and 3 km, long; hemmed by cloud-capped-mountain ranges of undetermined depth; wild animals roaming its surrounding forest; hunter’s paradise; lake said to be the habitat of giant eel.
Cuatro IslasLocated in the towns of Inopacan and Hindang, Leyte; plus pumpboat ride. Four lovely isles namely, Digyo, Apid, Mahaba, and Himokilan bordered by white sandy shore; surrounded by beautiful coral gardens, the best in Leyte island. A total of 287 species of reef building corals can be found in the islands waters; rich fishing ground.
Mahaba Island (Cuatro Islas)Located in Inopacan, Leyte, 130 km. from Tacloban City via Baybay, or 2-hour ride from Ormoc City; plus 30-minute pumpboat ride. Underwater paradise for eco-tourism; marine sanctuary; beautiful view of Camotes Sea; good for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving; limestone formation represents fossil coral reefs and fauna. Outrigger boat service; kiosks; restroom; viewing deck; diving equipment for rent; sari-sari (variety store) SCUBA tank; dive buddy; snorkelling equipment; glass bottom boat; “baruto” for rent.
Amihan Cebu WoodlandsLocated in San Isidro and Calubian, Leyte. The coastline formation is ideal for swimming, water rides, and scuba diving. Cattles wildly roam around the fenced pasture land; coconut, forest trees, acacia trees, grasslands, shrubs, and mangroves enhance its scenic country appeal.
Mt. Pangasuhan EcoparkLocated in Brgy. Pangasuhan, Baybay, Leyte. One of the few remaining virgin rainforests in the Philippines. It is richly endowed with diverse flora and fauna, many of which are considered endangered species like flying lemurs and tarsiers; a unique and precious ecological asset.
Red BeachLocated in Brgys. Baras and Candahug, Palo Leyte, 10 km. from Tacloban City. Landing site of the Allied Forces headed by Gen. Douglas MacArthur during the liberation of the Philippines in 1944; panoramic view of Leyte Gulf and Samar Island; ideal place for promenading; picnicking, swimming, and windsurfing. Beach resort with restaurant, other guest services, and sports facilities, native beach, kiosks with wooden picnic tables, and benches for rent.
Mt. KankahanayLocated in Jaro, Leyte, 37 km. from Tacloban City. Scenic virgin forests, very cool climate, almost 4,000 ft. above sea level; hunter’s paradise.
Mahagnao National ParkLocated in Burauen, Leyte, 66 km. from Tacloban City is very much ideal for hiking. Established national park since 1937; awe-inspiring craters, hot springs, multi-colored muds and rocks, lakes, virgin forests with giant ferns and orchids, lagoon, and temperate climate.
Leyte Mountain TrailAn outstanding trekking area which starts from the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park, Burauen to Lake Danao Natural Park in Ormoc, a distance of approximately 40 km. Rainforest tour, beautiful lakes – Mahagnao, Malagsum, Casudsu-ran and Danao; the spectacular Guinaniban Falls, breathtaking view of mountains, forests, plains and the island of Samar and Leyte from the crest of the central Amandiwing Mountain Range; the profusion of tropical flora and fauna including colourful insects, butterflies, dragonflies, bugs, giant millipedes, deers, wild boars, monkeys, birds, orchids, and giant ferns.
Tongonan Hotsprings National ParkLocated in Ormoc City, 123 km. from Tacloban City (also accessible from Kananga). A valley of geothermal power source that can supply electricity to the whole region when fully developed; cool and relaxing climate; first geothermal power plant to operate in the Philippines.
Himokilan IslandHindang, Leyte, 140 km. from Tacloban City plus 30-minute pumpboat ride. Largest island of the Cuatro Islas where the big delicious coconut-cracking crabs called “tatus” are found.
Lake DanaoLocated in Ormoc City, 125 km. from Tacloban City. A violin-shaped lake 2,100 feet above sea level and 3 km, long; hemmed by cloud-capped-mountain ranges of undetermined depth; wild animals roaming its surrounding forest; hunter’s paradise; lake said to be the habitat of giant eel.
Cuatro IslasLocated in the towns of Inopacan and Hindang, Leyte; plus pumpboat ride. Four lovely isles namely, Digyo, Apid, Mahaba, and Himokilan bordered by white sandy shore; surrounded by beautiful coral gardens, the best in Leyte island. A total of 287 species of reef building corals can be found in the islands waters; rich fishing ground.
Mahaba Island (Cuatro Islas)Located in Inopacan, Leyte, 130 km. from Tacloban City via Baybay, or 2-hour ride from Ormoc City; plus 30-minute pumpboat ride. Underwater paradise for eco-tourism; marine sanctuary; beautiful view of Camotes Sea; good for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving; limestone formation represents fossil coral reefs and fauna. Outrigger boat service; kiosks; restroom; viewing deck; diving equipment for rent; sari-sari (variety store) SCUBA tank; dive buddy; snorkelling equipment; glass bottom boat; “baruto” for rent.
Amihan Cebu WoodlandsLocated in San Isidro and Calubian, Leyte. The coastline formation is ideal for swimming, water rides, and scuba diving. Cattles wildly roam around the fenced pasture land; coconut, forest trees, acacia trees, grasslands, shrubs, and mangroves enhance its scenic country appeal.
Mt. Pangasuhan EcoparkLocated in Brgy. Pangasuhan, Baybay, Leyte. One of the few remaining virgin rainforests in the Philippines. It is richly endowed with diverse flora and fauna, many of which are considered endangered species like flying lemurs and tarsiers; a unique and precious ecological asset.
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